Antonio Conte has reportedly told Manchester United what he requires in order to accept the coaching role and replace Michael Carrick.
Conte has emerged as a potential option for United as they weigh up Carrick's future. His side are enduring a disastrous start to the season and pressure is growing.
With Carrick potentially headed for the exit door, talk in Italy suggests Conte is prepared to enter the Old Trafford dugout. But he's made some demands to INEOS including on the recruitment front.
Antonio Conte Makes Man Utd Demands
According to Italian outlet La Repubblica Conte wants control over transfers and the freedom to choose his own staff before agreeing to replace Carrick. He is also insisting on “carte blanche” in the transfer market.
Conte is adamant that he is to have a say in squad planning and the chance to bring in trusted members of his coaching team. Discussions between United representatives and Conte’s camp are said to have continued late on October 21st, but the two sides have yet to reach an agreement.
Carrick remains in charge despite United’s 4–1 defeat away to Como in the Champions League. United have won only two of their 11 matches in all competitions this season, and Carrick is expected to lead the team against Bournemouth.
Why Conte Wants Transfer Control
Conte has traditionally favoured a managerial role with significant influence over recruitment and squad building. He wants to shape the team around his footballing ideas, not simply work with players selected by others.
The report does not clarify how much authority United’s sporting or technical director would retain over transfers.
Manchester United’s current problems could make that control particularly important. They have gone seven matches without a win across all competitions, including a 4–1 defeat away to Como in the Champions League on 21 October.
United have struggled for consistency under Carrick, leaving the club facing questions about its direction. Carrick insisted he did not need reassurance from United’s hierarchy before the Como game.
“I don’t need any reassurance,” he said. “I know the role; I know my responsibilities.” He added, “I know we’ve got to win football games for everything to flow and everything to fit into place.”
Conte has previously won the Premier League with Chelsea and guided Tottenham to Champions League qualification in 2021–22.
His experience at both clubs gives context to his preference for greater control, although the report does not establish that United’s results are the reason behind his demands.
Who are Manchester United’s other Managerial Options?
Conte is not the only manager linked with the United job. Julian Nagelsmann is reportedly the leading option if the club decides to sack Carrick, with Fabian Hürzeler, Eddie Howe and Kieran McKenna also under consideration.
Carrick is expected to remain in charge for the Bournemouth game while United assess their options. Neither Conte nor United has publicly confirmed an offer or formal talks.
United must also decide whether to accept Conte’s reported demand for control over transfers. No decision has been reported, leaving Carrick in charge as the club considers its next move.
